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Geospatial Technology Program Offers ArcGIS 10.1 Courses

AMES, Iowa — The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Geospatial Technology Program is offering two geographic information systems (GIS) short courses this summer.

“Essentials of ArcGIS 10.1” is a two-day course that explores the new, easy-to-use features in ArcGIS 10.1: ArcMap, ArcToolbox and ArcCatalog. Participants receive hands-on instruction from experienced GIS specialists, along with a set of newly revised tutorials. The courses are scheduled for 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. June 13-14 and Aug. 22-23. The courses will be conducted at the ISU Extension Community and Economic Development Program office at the Iowa State University Research Park in Ames.

Topics covered in the course include

Displaying, projecting and editing data

Working with tables

Working with georeferenced data

Querying a database and selecting features by location

Making good maps from the data

Although designed for those with no GIS experience, the course has been valuable for GIS users with some experience in order to improve their skills. Experience using Windows-based applications is recommended.

This course is the place to begin for anyone looking for a way to simply get started with GIS technology, said Alan Jensen, an ISU Extension geospatial specialist. The course begins by assuming no knowledge of GIS and builds from that point onto the development of foundational skills. By the second day participants will be designing their own maps and doing simple geospatial analysis. Upon finishing the course, participants receive a certificate of completion, and the instructors continue to make themselves available as participants adopt their new skills for their own projects.

The two-day workshop is $500. Fees include course tutorials, handouts, snacks and beverages. Lodging and meals are not included.

Advance registration is required and enrollment is limited to 12 participants per course. If two or more people from the same organization register for the same course(s) in this series, each registrant also will receive a 10 percent discount. An organization may reserve all 12 seats for a particular course at a 15 percent discount.